We have just completed the first week of our annual fifty-two-week cycle around the sun. It is a 365 day trip marked by moments of accomplishment and reflection, a time when we consider the many things that we did over the last twelve months, as well as those others that, perhaps, we failed to do, postponed until the calendar once again reminded us that it might be a good time for a second run at them.
The categories for these things—either accomplished or neglected—can be personal; they can be professional; they can be moral, spiritual or occupy another category. They can be shared or remain private, for full display or held closely, inner sanctum safe.
But the new year signals one more chance to recalibrate and that means new resolutions, new goals, new aspirations. Or, as we grow older, one more chance.
What, though, is a goal? A resolution? Are they aspirational or inspirational? Worthy of personal discipline and action or ephemeral, lofty, momentary or simply intimately private?
A goal is a target, something with a starting point and an end line. It is well defined. It is a commitment to go from the bottom of the mountain to the top of the peak or, more incrementally, to reach a rung higher on the ladder than the one currently occupied.
A resolution is a promise, the altering of an arc of self. More often it is not a proclamation but a more personal course altering and, often an open ended vow, perhaps to be more kind, more patient, more caring, even something as simple as more punctual.
But goals and promises are as individual as fingerprints. They are made for self as often as they are commitments to others.
LaVozColorado chose people across the metro area—most well-known—to share their goals and resolutions for 2026. Here is a sample.
Rosemary Rodriguez, former Denver City Council and Denver School Board:
“To practice self-care and be useful where I can. Charles Dickens said, ‘no one is useless in this world who lightens the burden of another.’”
Federico Pena, former Denver Mayor and Presidential Cabinet member:
“My priority is to spend more time with my four grandchildren…where I can have the most meaningful impact with love, joy and support. They are, indeed, the future.
As for our nation, I pray that as Americans we can find a way to respect one another, to learn from each other and to ultimately unite ourselves as trustful Americans for some in the world seek to undermine our nation and our democracy while we remain divided.” (The Pena ‘line’ expanded by on December 23rd with the arrival of a baby girl.)
Rhonda Solis, former member Colorado State Board of Education and current serves on Aims Community College Board of Trustees:
Education and the right to vote are the two equalizers in our society and may we keep fighting for both in 2026!
Andrew Hudson, former Press Secretary to Denver Mayor Wellington Webb and President Andrew Hudson Jobs:
“A laser-sharp focus is your job seeking GPS. With a focus, you won’t waste time applying for irrelevant jobs. Don’t fall into the board trap where all you do is apply for jobs on job boards. Job seeking is a full contact sport with requires networking, cold calling and putting yourself out there.” (Hudson has operated AndrewHudsonsJobslist.com for more than twenty years. He has helped thousands of job seekers with jobs and employment and career advice. His jobsite is free and advertises hundreds of metro area and Colorado-wide jobs each week.)
Phil Weiser, Colorado Attorney General and current Democratic candidate for Governor:
“My hope for the new year is more listening, less yelling; more working together to solve problems and less demonizing others; and a championship season for the Nuggets.”
Leslie Dahlkemper, Jefferson County Commissioner:
“I’m doubling down on making housing more affordable for Jeffco’s working families, veterans, and the elderly. Jeffco has one of the largest populations of veterans and aging adults in the state. Like other areas, housing demand and prices are through the roof…We’re short 13,000-plus units to meet demand. We’re working to increase the supply of affordable housing because we know quality, affordable housing matters for family stability, economic growth, and a thriving community.”
Retired Denver Judge Bill Lucero and his family recently had a dangerously close call when they got stuck in a snowstorm and out of cell phone range on the way to Steamboat Springs. A stranger, “Tom,” rescued them, asking no questions and refusing any offers of payment beyond a simply ‘thanks.’
Bill Lucero: “I have had a few additional thoughts about hope (and the stranger who lent a hand). We need to seek and celebrate each other in ways that bring out our humanity. For my part, I am going to spend more time in the new year on positive vibes, not buried in the endless (political) chaos. Celebrate acts of random kindness is uplifting, giving in kindness is even better. Taking the time to appreciate how much joy our pets bring to us. Watching and listening to an infant’s joyous giggles. Setting and giving myself some quiet time. Reading more poetry and seeking to understand, instead of being understood. Celebrate our heritage.”
Pauline Rivera, LaVozColorado Publisher – I hope to better balance personal life with an overall commitment to community. To always find the good in people. To care deeply for your #1 priority, yourself, and ultimately, to spend more time with family and friends. Finally, a big thanks to my super amazing staff.
How you choose to alter your 2026 from the patterns of the previous year can be in small or great ways. All of these matters are unique and personal. But whatever you choose, may your choices result in good things for you and others. Happy New Year!
